61345 Oth cranial dcmprn pst fossa
Also known as: posterior fossa decompression, transcranial posterior fossa approach
Craniotomy or craniectomy with decompression of posterior fossa through transcranial approach.
In Plain Language
surgical opening to relieve lower brain pressure from skull
Clinical Context
Used for Chiari malformation decompression, foramen magnum stenosis, or other causes of posterior fossa crowding. Provides access for dural opening and decompression.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 28.50 |
| Total RVU | 28.50 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 28.50, this code ranks in the 91st percentile among Surgery codes — 3.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61345?
CPT 61345 (Oth cranial dcmprn pst fossa) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy or craniectomy with decompression of posterior fossa through transcranial approach.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61345?
The work RVU for CPT 61345 is 28.50. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, skull base surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61345 used?
Used for Chiari malformation decompression, foramen magnum stenosis, or other causes of posterior fossa crowding. Provides access for dural opening and decompression.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.